In the distillery garden, we grow a mix of useful botanicals alongside companion plants that help keep hares and deer at bay. Yet one plant, often dismissed as a weed, stands out as a true powerhouse packed with remarkable health benefits. We haven’t used it in our spirits just yet, but Hugh is exploring how it might be woven into future creations.
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is one of those remarkable plants that has earned a place in herbal traditions across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Towering up to two metres high with its distinctive yellow flowers and soft, velvety leaves, mullein is more than just a striking wild plant it’s a powerhouse of natural remedies. Every part of the plant, from root to flower, carries unique benefits that have been used for centuries.
Leaves: The leaves are perhaps the most famous. Covered in fine, silvery hairs, they have been used in teas, infusions, and tinctures for their soothing effects on the respiratory system. Herbalists prize mullein leaf as an expectorant, helping to loosen and expel mucus from the lungs, making it invaluable in treating coughs, bronchitis, and even asthma. The anti-inflammatory properties also calm irritated tissues, which is why mullein tea is still a go-to for sore throats and chest congestion.
Flowers: The flowers hold a different set of qualities. When infused in oil, mullein blossoms produce a golden liquid often used for earaches, ear infections, and mild pain relief. This traditional ear oil has been passed down through folk medicine for generations. Beyond that, the flowers add a subtle sweetness to teas and can be blended with other herbs to promote relaxation and sleep. Their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties further enhance their medicinal value.
Roots: The roots are less commonly used but still highly effective. Traditionally, mullein root has been prepared as a decoction to support urinary health, particularly for easing irritation of the bladder and kidneys. Some folk remedies also highlight mullein root as beneficial for musculoskeletal issues, including back pain and sciatica.
Old Stalks: Even the stalk has a history of use. Dried mullein stalks were once dipped in tallow or wax to create makeshift torches hence the nickname “torch plant.” The seeds, though less commonly employed today, were historically used by fishermen who scattered them on water to stun fish, thanks to natural saponins.
What makes mullein so extraordinary is its versatility. It offers soothing relief for the lungs, anti-inflammatory action for pain and irritation, gentle calming properties for stress, and even practical uses as a natural torch or fishing aid. Few plants can claim to be as multi-functional, combining beauty, resilience, and medicinal strength.
Mullein is, quite simply, nature’s gift a plant that shows how every part of a species can serve human well being, when understood and respected.
